Rock Hill BMX Track | Rock Hill

The Rock Hill BMX Supercross Track, located at the Rock Hill Outdoor Center along the Catawba River, is one of the premier BMX racing facilities in the United States and a central piece of Rock Hill’s identity as a world-class cycling destination. Opened in 2014, it was built to meet Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) standards and has since hosted multiple national and international competitions.

History and Development

The track was developed as part of Rock Hill’s effort to brand itself as “Sports Tourism Central.”

It was the first Olympic-caliber BMX track on the East Coast, constructed in collaboration with USA BMX and UCI.

Its creation followed Rock Hill’s investment in cycling infrastructure, which also includes the Giordana Velodrome, forming a hub for professional and amateur cyclists alike.

Layout and Features

Olympic-Caliber Track

The track is 1,200 feet long, with professionally designed jumps, berms, and rhythm sections that mimic those used in international competition.

It features an 8-meter starting hill, the same size used in the Olympics, giving riders a true elite-level experience.

A smaller 5-meter hill is also included for amateur and youth-level racing.

Spectator Areas

The facility includes stadium-style seating, open grass viewing areas, and shaded spots, allowing fans to watch races comfortably.

The elevated starting hills create dramatic race views as riders launch into the track.

Support Facilities

Riders and teams benefit from an indoor staging area, registration and event offices, concessions, and restrooms.

The track is equipped for both daytime and nighttime racing, with lighting systems that allow for evening events.

Events and Competitions

The Rock Hill BMX Track has hosted numerous USA BMX National Championships, as well as international events like the UCI BMX World Championships in 2017, which brought thousands of riders and spectators from around the globe.

Local races and clinics are held regularly, giving young riders the chance to train and compete on a professional-grade course.

The track is open for community riding sessions, helping nurture grassroots participation in the sport.

Community and Cultural Impact

The track has placed Rock Hill on the map as a global cycling hub, attracting athletes from across the United States and abroad.

It contributes significantly to sports tourism, boosting local hotels, restaurants, and businesses during major events.

Beyond professional competition, it provides opportunities for local youth to engage in active, outdoor recreation while developing skills in a challenging but supportive environment.

Identity and Significance

The Rock Hill BMX Track symbolizes the city’s commitment to world-class sports facilities and community health. It bridges elite international competition with local engagement, making BMX racing both spectacular to watch and accessible to riders of all levels. Together with the Giordana Velodrome and the nearby Riverwalk, it forms part of a thriving sports and recreation corridor that has reshaped Rock Hill’s image on a national and international stage.